Missouri Security Deposit Limits and Deadlines Explained

Security deposits are an important part of renting a home or apartment in Missouri. Knowing the legal limits and deadlines around security deposits can help you avoid surprises and protect your rights as a renter. This guide explains Missouri’s current security deposit regulations, including maximum amounts landlords can collect, the deadline for returning your deposit, and your options if you believe your deposit was unfairly withheld.

Security Deposit Limits in Missouri

Under Missouri law, landlords may not require a security deposit greater than two months’ rent. For example, if your monthly rent is $1,000, your deposit cannot exceed $2,000. Any amount above this limit is not legally enforceable by the landlord.^[1]

• If you are asked to pay more than two months’ rent as a deposit, you may remind your landlord of this state limit and refer to Missouri Revised Statutes Section 535.300.
• Application fees are separate from security deposits and are not regulated by this specific statute.

Some landlords may also collect prepaid rent, but only the amount marked as a security deposit is subject to this rule.

When Should Your Security Deposit Be Returned?

The law in Missouri requires landlords to return your security deposit within 30 days after you move out. This is called the "return deadline." The 30-day period starts once you vacate the property and return the keys. If the landlord decides to withhold any portion of your deposit for damages (excluding normal wear and tear) or unpaid rent, they must provide you with a written, itemized list of deductions within the same 30 days.^[1]

• Failure to return the deposit or send a written statement within 30 days can allow the renter to take legal action and potentially recover double the amount wrongfully withheld, plus court and attorney fees.
• "Normal wear and tear"—like worn carpets or faded paint—cannot legally be deducted from your deposit.

How to Get Your Deposit Back: Steps to Take

Ensuring a smooth return of your security deposit requires clear communication and some paperwork. Here’s what you can do:

• Provide your landlord with your forwarding address in writing before or immediately after moving out so they know where to send your deposit and statement.
• Request a move-out inspection. Missouri law says you can request, in writing, an inspection to determine damages before you leave.
• Document the condition of your rental (photos, videos) on move-out day.

Missouri Move-Out Inspection Notice

Before moving out, Missouri tenants have the right to a move-out inspection. There is no official state-issued form, but you can provide a written notice (letter or email) stating your request for a move-out inspection with the landlord. This inspection will help clarify what is considered damage and what is normal wear and tear.

• When to use it: Send your request at least a few days before your planned move-out date.
• Practical example: "I would like to request a move-out inspection on [date] at [time]. Please confirm your availability."
• For more information, see the Missouri Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Guide.

If Your Deposit Isn’t Returned: Taking Action

If your landlord does not return your deposit within 30 days, or if you believe deductions are unreasonable or not itemized, you have several options:

• Contact your landlord in writing to request an explanation or the remainder of your deposit.
• File a complaint or consider small claims court to recover the deposit.

Filing in Missouri Small Claims Court

To recover money owed, you may file a claim in your county’s small claims court. The main form used is the Missouri Small Claims Petition (Form CC83):

• Form Name: Small Claims Petition (Form CC83)
• When to use: If the landlord refuses to return your security deposit after 30 days, or you dispute deducted amounts.
• How to use: Complete the form with details about your landlord, the amount withheld, and attach supporting documentation (communications, photos, receipts). File it at your local circuit court office.
• Official form and instructions available at the Missouri Courts website.

The tribunal handling landlord-tenant issues is the Missouri Circuit Court. Choose the location for the court in the area where the rental property is located.

Relevant Missouri Security Deposit Laws

The main law governing security deposits in Missouri is Missouri Revised Statutes Section 535.300. This law details security deposit limits, required deadlines, allowable deductions, and renter remedies. You can also find helpful explanations in the Missouri Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Law Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Missouri?
   Missouri law caps security deposits at two months’ rent, regardless of lease type or duration.
2. When must my landlord return my security deposit?
   Your landlord is legally required to return your deposit, or provide a written statement of deductions, within 30 days after move-out and key return.
3. What can be deducted from my security deposit?
   Only damages beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent or fees agreed upon in the lease can be deducted; general wear and tear cannot.
4. What happens if my landlord does not return my deposit in time?
   If your landlord doesn’t comply within 30 days, you can take legal action and may recover double the amount wrongfully withheld, plus court costs and attorney fees.
5. How do I file a complaint or legal claim for my deposit?
   Prepare supporting documents and submit a Small Claims Petition (Form CC83) at your local Missouri Circuit Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri landlords can collect up to two months’ rent as a security deposit—no more.
• Security deposits must be returned, minus legitimate deductions, within 30 days of move-out.
• Keep thorough documentation and know your right to an inspection and to challenge any unfair deductions.

Understanding these rules will help you safeguard your deposit and assert your tenant rights confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General Tenant Complaint Form — for reporting unresolved issues with your landlord.
• Landlord-Tenant Law Guide (PDF) — official summary of Missouri tenant and landlord rights.
• Missouri Circuit Courts — to locate or file claims for security deposit disputes.
• If you need further help, you may also contact the Legal Services of Missouri for free legal support for qualified renters.

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes Section 535.300 – Security deposits: limitations, requirements and remedies
2. Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
3. Missouri Small Claims Petition (Form CC83)

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